PADANG, May 7 — Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), through its Faculty of Science, successfully conducted the Global Outreach Program (UTM-GOP) from May 4th to 7th, 2025, in West Sumatra, Indonesia. This program engaged three prominent universities – Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi, Andalas University, and Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Imam Bonjol Padang. Led by Muhammad Iqbal Haikal Samia’an, the program involved 14 students from the Department of Mathematical Sciences, Faculty of Science, UTM Johor Bahru, and was supervised by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Norma Alias and Dr. Fuaada Mohd Siam. The UTM-GOP team implemented 11 activities that integrated academic collaboration, cultural appreciation, and community development, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
As a core component of the UTM-GOP program, academic exchange activities were designed to promote intellectual collaboration and cross-institutional learning between UTM and the participating universities in West Sumatra. In UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukit Tinggi, the delegation took part in two student research seminars, which provided a platform for UTM and Indonesian students to present and discuss their ongoing research projects, fostering an environment of innovation and critical inquiry. In addition, participants attended two lecture sessions hosted by local faculty members, offering valuable insights into regionally relevant topics in science and education. Furthermore, three guest lectures were delivered by UTM academics and experts from the host institutions, covering diverse topics such as data science, environmental modeling, and interdisciplinary approaches in mathematics.
As part of the academic immersion activities, UTM participants had the valuable opportunity to attend lecture sessions at both UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi and UIN Imam Bonjol Padang, where they experienced the teaching environment and academic culture of Indonesian universities. In addition, several UTM students were given the opportunity to present their Final Year Project (FYP) during the lecture sessions, receiving constructive feedback and gaining confidence in sharing their research in an international setting. The exchange was further enriched by a lecture delivered by Dr. Fuada, a UTM academic, who shared her expertise with Indonesian students on a topic relevant to their curriculum.
The cultural exploration was conducted by visiting to Istano Basa Pagaruyung, a prominent cultural heritage site in West Sumatra that represents the traditional Minangkabau palace architecture and history. The host institution, provided an insightful explanation on the history and significance of the Minangkabau civilization. Besides that, the traditional Minangkabau performances, such as “Ayam Den Lapeh” and “Kamoung Ku Jauh Di Mato,” were presented by the Universitas Andalas cultural team, offering not only entertainment but also a reaffirmation of cultural dignity. Guests were warmly welcomed with the traditional makan sirih (betel leaf offering) and performances using the saluang flute, symbolizing respect, friendship, and harmony with nature.
Beyond academic activities, the program featured impactful community service and sustainable development initiatives. At UIN Padang, the stingless bee honey project showcased how local biodiversity can be transformed into economic opportunities while conserving ecosystems. A cultural visit to Istana Pagar Ruyung highlighted the Minangkabau philosophy “Alam Terkembang Jadi Guru” (Nature as Teacher), reinforcing how traditional wisdom and environmental awareness can be powerful educational tools. Knowledge-sharing workshops on artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and disaster resilience also demonstrated UTM’s commitment to addressing global and regional challenges such as poverty, educational inequality, and climate change. The natural landscapes of Mount Marapi and Ngarai Sianok further served as compelling backdrops for discussions on environmental conservation and sustainability.
The UTM-GOP program emphasized three core pillars of Minangkabau identity: Adat Basandi Syara’ (customs rooted in Islamic values), Merantau (the spirit of hospitality and diaspora engagement), and environmental harmony, as symbolized by the saluang flute and the integration of nature into learning. These cultural principles were embedded throughout the program’s activities, fostering deeper intercultural understanding and academic synergy. By blending traditional heritage with modern academic and technological approaches, the UTM-GOP program has successfully strengthened cross-border collaboration, promoted cultural diplomacy, and advanced sustainable development goals. It has paved the way for long-term partnerships between UTM and West Sumatran institutions, proving that academic outreach can be a transformative force for both education and community resilience.
Prepared by, Ler Lian Yi